Common Clothes Moth

Tineola Bisselliella, known best as the COMMON CLOTHES MOTH, WEBBING CLOTHES MOTH, or simply CLOTHING MOTH. The caterpillars (larvae) of this species of moth are considered as a serious pest, as they derive nourishment from clothing, in particular wool, but many other natural fibres and also like most related species, from stored produce.

The moth prefer moist conditions, although low humidity will merely slow development. Over the past few years, the winters are have been milder which the moth is able to survive and thrive throughout the winter months. This species is notorious for feeding on clothing and natural fibres as they have the ability to digest keratin. The moths prefer dirty fabric and are particularly attracted to carpets and clothing that contains human sweat or other liquids which have been spilled onto them. The sweat on the textiles provide the moisture for the larvae, as the larvae can not drink naturally, consequently their food must contain moisture for them to survive.

The adult moth itself does not cause the damage you may find on your clothing or carpets, it is the larvae stage of the moth. Once the larvae has consumed enough food (keratin), they pupate and undergo the next stage of the ‘complete metamorphosis’. The moths then emerge from the pupae cases (adults) of which the males are then in search of females with whom to mate. The females then look for ideal places to lay their eggs. Once reproduction is complete, the adult moth dies shortly afterwards.

If this pest is left untreated or ignored, the potential damage to your textiles, clothes, carpets etc could be very expensive.

Recommendations To Prevent A Common Clothes Moth Infestation:

1. Check for moths in the cracks, crevices, folds of clothing
2. Make sure your dirty / sweaty clothes are clean before storing them
3. Keep items in vacuum bags or in sealed boxes with lids
4. At least once a month, give your clothes a shake down (especially those clothes you do not wear regularly) as moths dislike being disturbed
5. Regular hoovering around the bottom of wardrobes and other furniture
6. Having your open chimneys checked and cleaned once a year by a professional chimney sweep
7. Look underneath seats for signs of webbing or ‘cases’
8. Look inside your loft spaces for bird activity / nests
9. After using your hoover, empty the contents into a bag, seal it up and dispose of it in an outside bin
10. If any of the above recommendations have failed to control the moth, please call BioPest Management Ltd. We will be happy to assist you in controlling your infestation

BioPest Management Ltd offer a range of control and monitoring programmes from pheromone traps, non pesticide solutions, residual insecticide sprays and ultra low volume insecticide treatments. Please contact our team of highly trained technicians and surveyors for support and advice in eradicating your moth activity.

Call: 0203 693 3930

Email: office@biopestmanagement.co.uk

Thank you

Team BioPest